The San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) has achieved a significant milestone in enhancing its mental health response capabilities. Every eligible frontline officer has successfully obtained the Mental Health Peace Officer (MHPO) certification, fulfilling a multi-year departmental initiative aimed at improving the way officers interact with individuals experiencing mental health crises. Currently, 76 officers, representing 59 percent of the department, hold this vital certification.
State legislation stipulates that officers must have a minimum of two years of service before they can begin the MHPO coursework, which means the pool of eligible candidates is continually evolving. As newer officers reach this service threshold, they will enter the same advanced certification track, ensuring the department maintains high standards for mental health training in the long term. Notably, 57 officers completed the certification in 2025 alone, contributing to a total of over 4,200 hours of specialized training, which includes modules on de-escalation, crisis intervention, first aid, CPR, and a comprehensive 24-hour Mental Health Officer course.
Commitment to Community Needs
“Our community has been clear about the importance of mental health. We listened,” stated San Marcos Police Chief Stan Standridge. He emphasized that the priority placed on this training is crucial, as individuals in crisis deserve officers who are equipped to de-escalate situations and connect them with necessary support. This certification ensures that officers have the training and tools required to handle these sensitive situations effectively.
The impact of this initiative is evident in the operational readiness of the department. Of the 76 certified MHPOs, 54 are assigned to public-facing roles, including patrol, school-based policing, downtown operations, and crisis response teams. Starting in January 2026, a majority of officers on each patrol shift will hold MHPO certifications, enhancing the department’s capacity to manage mental health emergencies effectively.
Recognition and Future Goals
Greg Stevens, Executive Director of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), commended the San Marcos Police Department for its leadership in addressing mental health issues within law enforcement. “TCOLE is proud to recognize the San Marcos Police Department as it works to ensure its patrol officers are trained and prepared to respond effectively to situations involving citizens experiencing a mental health crisis,” he remarked.
Lonzo Anderson, Assistant City Manager, highlighted that the accomplishment reflects a deep commitment to community trust. “This remarkable achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to standing by residents during their most vulnerable moments. With this advanced training, our officers are equipped to respond with understanding, patience, and compassion,” he noted. This commitment is expected to further enhance the trust between the police department and the community it serves.
Chief Gene Ellis (ret), Executive Director of the Texas Police Chiefs Association, congratulated the SMPD on this achievement. He stated, “Their dedication to completing this extensive certification process reflects an unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of service to the San Marcos community.” He added that San Marcos is among the few agencies in Texas to reach this level of certification, setting a benchmark for excellence in the state.
With this accomplishment, the San Marcos Police Department has not only improved its operational capabilities but has also set an example for law enforcement agencies across Texas and beyond in addressing mental health with care and professionalism.
